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The Music Room => Composer Discussion => Topic started by: vandermolen on December 12, 2008, 12:41:40 AM

Title: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on December 12, 2008, 12:41:40 AM
I have always rather liked the music of the Icelandic composer Leifs. He had something of a tragic life as one of his daughter's drowned and despite the fact that his first wife was Jewish he was accused (unfairly I think) of Nazi sympathies, as he lived in Nazi Germany.

The Saga Symphony is good and reminds me a bit of Havergal Brian and Carlos Chavez. Not because it sounds much like them but because of the rather uncompromising and craggy quality to the music. 'Geysir' on BIS is especially good and an appropriate introduction to Leifs. There is a good Chandos CD too.

Tears of stone was the title of a film about Leifs.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Christo on December 12, 2008, 02:15:54 AM
Quote from: vandermolen on December 12, 2008, 12:41:40 AM
I have always rather liked the music of the Icelandic composer Leifs. He had something of a tragic life as one of his daughter's drowned and despite the fact that his first wife was Jewish he was accused (unfairly I think) of Nazi sympathies, as he lived in Nazi Germany.

The Saga Symphony is good and reminds me a bit of Havergal Brian and Carlos Chavez. Not because it sounds much like them but because of the rather uncompromising and craggy quality to the music. 'Geysir' on BIS is especially good and an appropriate introduction to Leifs. There is a good Chandos CD too.

Tears of stone was the title of a film about Leifs.

I saw Tears of Stone, but didn't like it, as far as I can remember. Leifs as a composer is intriguing enough, though.  :)

In 1999 I even travelled to Reykjavík to look for his traces and meet a few people who had known him. One of them, an Octogenarian composer, Jón Þórarinsson (born 1917 and still among us) drove me through the town in his American car. I think he disliked Leifs, both as a man and as a composer, but he was too much of a gentleman to say so.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on December 12, 2008, 02:34:49 AM
Quote from: Christo on December 12, 2008, 02:15:54 AM
I saw Tears of Stone, but didn't like it, as far as I can remember. Leifs as a composer is intriguing enough, though.  :)

In 1999 I even travelled to Reykjavík to look for his traces and meet a few people who had known him. One of them, an Octogenarian composer, Jón Þórarinsson (born 1917 and still among us) drove me through the town in his American car. I think he disliked Leifs, both as a man and as a composer, but he was too much of a gentleman to say so.

Fascinating! Thanks Johan.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Dundonnell on December 12, 2008, 11:17:29 AM
I am very happy to see you starting a thread on Jon Leifs, Jeffrey!

This is something I wrote about Leifs on a previous thread-

"Leifs is a fantastically interesting composer in my opinion!

I suppose that it is partly because I spent two glorious weeks in Iceland last summer that I respond so enthusiastically to his depictions of the amazing natural phenomena of that wonderful, amazing country

Works like 'Hekla', 'Dettifoss', 'Geysir' and 'Haifs' evoke such memories of the dramatic scenery on the island
The Saga Symphony and the Organ Concerto are also favourites of mine.

But he is very loud   You would not want to play too many pieces in succession without running the risk of a headache

The BIS series makes up a splendid collection and is strongly recommended."

If music and scenery go hand in hand, which, in the case of Nordic music, is very much true for me then the music of Leifs and my memories of Iceland are indissolubly linked. I did like Leifs's music before visiting Iceland but it means so much more to me now :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on December 12, 2008, 03:21:17 PM
Quote from: Dundonnell on December 12, 2008, 11:17:29 AM
I am very happy to see you starting a thread on Jon Leifs, Jeffrey!

This is something I wrote about Leifs on a previous thread-

"Leifs is a fantastically interesting composer in my opinion!

I suppose that it is partly because I spent two glorious weeks in Iceland last summer that I respond so enthusiastically to his depictions of the amazing natural phenomena of that wonderful, amazing country

Works like 'Hekla', 'Dettifoss', 'Geysir' and 'Haifs' evoke such memories of the dramatic scenery on the island
The Saga Symphony and the Organ Concerto are also favourites of mine.

But he is very loud   You would not want to play too many pieces in succession without running the risk of a headache

The BIS series makes up a splendid collection and is strongly recommended."

If music and scenery go hand in hand, which, in the case of Nordic music, is very much true for me then the music of Leifs and my memories of Iceland are indissolubly linked. I did like Leifs's music before visiting Iceland but it means so much more to me now :)

Interesting post Colin which I vaguely remember from its earlier manifestation. Yes, you wouldn't want to listen to Leifs for too long.  A work colleague, to whom I lent a Leifs CD, disparagingly described it like listening to someone inflating a paper bag and then bursting it!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Lilas Pastia on December 12, 2008, 07:51:06 PM
Leifs' big orchestral pieces are as unique as anything from the pen of other originals such as Charles Ives or Havergal Brian. I agre that the BIS series a the best way to sample and understand Leifs' peculiar genius. The combination of deceptively simple and short vocal or small orchestra works with his gargantuan yet concentrated hyper-orchestral showpieces is particularly apt.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on December 13, 2008, 12:26:58 AM
I agree that the comparison between Leifs and Havergal Brian is an apt one.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: donaldopato on December 13, 2008, 04:21:36 PM
I wrote this in a discussion about Leifs' music in October last year. I love the stuff!

His music is much like his native country; dark, powerful, cold, craggy, volcanic, relentless. It is difficult to categorize. The brutal power is sometimes overwhelming, thus making listening difficult and taking immense concentration. At the same time, the seismic tension of the music make it irresistible.

I have not heard all of Leif's music, just the "Saga Symphony" and the Three String Quartets. All are moving, emotional pieces. Note, since then I have heard a lot more.

The Symphony, based on Icelandic tales and heroes is full of battles, ghosts, glory,supernatural powers and sacrifice. I found it at first almost too much with little respite from the tension and drama. But that same relentlessness means the piece is never boring for sure.

The 3 Quartets span his working life and are each accessible and powerful. The more intimate setting of a quartet means a little less relentless orchestral power but certainly no let up in the emotional content. The second "Vita et Mors" is an elegy for his daughter killed in a swimming accident. The 3rd is a vivid portrait of some of El Greco's works including "Toledo", "Jesus chases the moneychangers from the temple" and the "Resurrection". A mini Pictures at an Exhibition that is every bit as descriptive as Mussorgsky's masterpiece.

I do encourage those who have not checked out Leifs to do so.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Dundonnell on December 13, 2008, 06:51:05 PM
Quote from: donaldopato on December 13, 2008, 04:21:36 PM
I wrote this in a discussion about Leifs' music in October last year. I love the stuff!

His music is much like his native country; dark, powerful, cold, craggy, volcanic, relentless. It is difficult to categorize. The brutal power is sometimes overwhelming, thus making listening difficult and taking immense concentration. At the same time, the seismic tension of the music make it irresistible.

I have not heard all of Leif's music, just the "Saga Symphony" and the Three String Quartets. All are moving, emotional pieces. Note, since then I have heard a lot more.

The Symphony, based on Icelandic tales and heroes is full of battles, ghosts, glory,supernatural powers and sacrifice. I found it at first almost too much with little respite from the tension and drama. But that same relentlessness means the piece is never boring for sure.

The 3 Quartets span his working life and are each accessible and powerful. The more intimate setting of a quartet means a little less relentless orchestral power but certainly no let up in the emotional content. The second "Vita et Mors" is an elegy for his daughter killed in a swimming accident. The 3rd is a vivid portrait of some of El Greco's works including "Toledo", "Jesus chases the moneychangers from the temple" and the "Resurrection". A mini Pictures at an Exhibition that is every bit as descriptive as Mussorgsky's masterpiece.

I do encourage those who have not checked out Leifs to do so.

Good description :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on December 14, 2008, 01:38:23 AM
As your local Brianic Advisor I'd like to chip in...

Yes, there are similarities between Brian and Leifs. The well-known words 'craggy', 'rugged', 'elemental', 'eruptive' apply to both composer. But I think Leifs exceeds Brian in ruggedness. Brian can be soft round the edges (his Englishness, I suppose), he is more contrapuntal (and counterpoint, to me, has an enveloping effect), whereas Leifs is stark, bare, harsh. I prefer the humanity that still shines through Brian's armour. Leifs wants his music to be like some elemental force, which I can't relate to as easily. I need a human filter. Being naked in a storm is less appealing to me.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Christo on December 14, 2008, 01:40:45 AM
Quote from: Jezetha on December 14, 2008, 01:38:23 AM
Being naked in a storm is less appealing to me.

I'm not sure about some posters here!  ;)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on December 14, 2008, 01:42:55 AM
Quote from: Christo on December 14, 2008, 01:40:45 AM
I'm not sure about some posters here!  ;)

Let's not go there.  ;D
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Dundonnell on December 14, 2008, 06:14:16 AM
Quote from: Christo on December 14, 2008, 01:40:45 AM
I'm not sure about some posters here!  ;)

Not to be recommended indeed ;D

During my fortnight in Iceland in July 2007 I had 12 days of glorious sunshine and 2 days of cloud and some rain. The gods did indeed smile on me ;D
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Christo on December 14, 2008, 06:34:38 AM
Quote from: Dundonnell on December 14, 2008, 06:14:16 AM
Not to be recommended indeed ;D

During my fortnight in Iceland in July 2007 I had 12 days of glorious sunshine and 2 days of cloud and some rain. The gods did indeed smile on me ;D

Hmm. During my stay, also in July, but 1999, apparently more Scottish minded weather gods proved active.  :( I only recall some sort of sunshine during a visit to the Þingvellir, where the Alþingi started to meet from the 10th century on.  :)

BTT. Who's heard the latest installments in the ongoing BIS cycle, I wonder. I'm especially curious after the ones with Edda I and also the complete Baldr (boasted to a world premiere recording, but it isn't, as I bought a twofer with the piece with the Iceland Youth Orchestra under Paul Zukofsky in 1999 (shown left) in the office of the Icelandic Music Information Centre, somewhere in the northern outskirts of Reykjavík.

(http://www.musicalobservations.com/images/cp2_106_107_big.jpg) (http://www.lafolia.com/images/covers2004/covell200401meat/bis1230.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31ILdFZ9lLL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Dundonnell on December 14, 2008, 06:54:45 AM
The 'Scottish minded weather gods' are active here; it has rained for three days nonstop :(

Edda I: yes. Baldr: no.

From a review on Amazon-

"I found Edda Part One quite exhilarating throughout its 75 minutes and can't wait for the next discs (two, since part four was not completed). BIS continue to do superb work in promoting Nordic music. My guess is that this is music which will resonate with the part of you that seeks solitude, wide open spaces, and occasionally fantasises about smashing things. If you're looking for seasonal dinner party music, you're on the wrong page. "

I love the quote about "fantasies about smashing things" ;D

There is a more detailed review here-

http://www.amazon.com/J%C3%B3n-Leifs-Creation-World-Hybrid/dp/B000XXW9GC

I heartily endorse what the reviewer has to say :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Lilas Pastia on December 14, 2008, 08:08:17 AM
Baldr and Edda: yes. Baldr is typical Leifs.  "A choreographic drama in two acts" lasting some 90 minutes. Scored for  solo tenor, chorus, bells, organ and mega orchestra. It's a string of set pieces that together cohere to form a kind of Cro-Magnon Saga - complete with The Creation of Man, Hurricane, Baldr's Dream, Oathtaking (the high point IMO), Baldr's Cremation and a jaw-dropping concluding Volcanic Eruption and Atonement. Altogether, it works better for me than his other big orchestral work, the Saga symphony.

For some reason Edda failed to leave much of an impression. I'll have to put it back in the player. It may have been one of those nights where I was too tired to concentrate.

Johan, you are right in your assessment of the 'craggy' Leifs, but he wrote many sweet and totally consonant works, most of them in the form of miniatures. Taken as a whole, his oeuvre is very eclectic, almost the work of two very different minds. That's why I like the BIS series that scatter the big 'nature' tone poems (Hekla, Dettifoss, Geysir, Hafis) with these works from 'the other Leifs'.

I also have a disc of icelandic music based on the Edda. It's titled Edda - Myths from Medieval Iceland. In the manner of medieval ballads, with voices, fiddles and lyre. That also contains sections about Baldr: Baldr's Dream and In Memory of Baldr. Obviously the myth was as central to scandinavian people as Tristan or Siegfried were to celtic or saxon ones.

There's another big Baldr work, this time by the Norse Gerr Tveitt: a giant vocal-orchestral work called Baldur's Dream. It also lasts 90 minutes and features soloists, chorus and a large orchestra. Unfortunately I got this from EClassical downloads, but that's a work that cries out for a booklet and without it I'm sure I miss a lot in terms of understanding its structure and of course, the narrative tread. Which reminds me that the Leifs Edda is also a download, with no text or notes. That may account for the dim memories I have of it.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on December 14, 2008, 08:49:31 AM
Thanks, Johan, Colin and André. I have the Saga Symphony, Hekla and Hafis, but I don't know Baldr. I am listening to a sample right now on eMusic (Volcanic Eruption and Atonement - I don't know why I find that title mildly humorous...) I like it.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Dundonnell on December 14, 2008, 03:11:52 PM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on December 14, 2008, 08:08:17 AM
Baldr and Edda: yes. Baldr is typical Leifs.  "A choreographic drama in two acts" lasting some 90 minutes. Scored for  solo tenor, chorus, bells, organ and mega orchestra. It's a string of set pieces that together cohere to form a kind of Cro-Magnon Saga - complete with The Creation of Man, Hurricane, Baldr's Dream, Oathtaking (the high point IMO), Baldr's Cremation and a jaw-dropping concluding Volcanic Eruption and Atonement. Altogether, it works better for me than his other big orchestral work, the Saga symphony.

For some reason Edda failed to leave much of an impression. I'll have to put it back in the player. It may have been one of those nights where I was too tired to concentrate.

Johan, you are right in your assessment of the 'craggy' Leifs, but he wrote many sweet and totally consonant works, most of them in the form of miniatures. Taken as a whole, his oeuvre is very eclectic, almost the work of two very different minds. That's why I like the BIS series that scatter the big 'nature' tone poems (Hekla, Dettifoss, Geysir, Hafis) with these works from 'the other Leifs'.

I also have a disc of icelandic music based on the Edda. It's titled Edda - Myths from Medieval Iceland. In the manner of medieval ballads, with voices, fiddles and lyre. That also contains sections about Baldr: Baldr's Dream and In Memory of Baldr. Obviously the myth was as central to scandinavian people as Tristan or Siegfried were to celtic or saxon ones.

There's another big Baldr work, this time by the Norse Gerr Tveitt: a giant vocal-orchestral work called Baldur's Dream. It also lasts 90 minutes and features soloists, chorus and a large orchestra. Unfortunately I got this from EClassical downloads, but that's a work that cries out for a booklet and without it I'm sure I miss a lot in terms of understanding its structure and of course, the narrative tread. Which reminds me that the Leifs Edda is also a download, with no text or notes. That may account for the dim memories I have of it.

Hmmm......I had forgotten about the Tveitt! I remember considering buying the 2 cd set when it was released by BIS. Oh dear...more expense!!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on December 16, 2008, 01:30:16 AM
I have a CD of Edda Part 1 "The Creation of the World". It is very powerful stuff with some great moments (Part 8 Night/Morning) but at 75 minutes it does have some longeurs. Cumulatively I think that the sum is greater that the parts. In this respect it reminded me a bit of Hilding Rosenberg's epic choral symphony No 4: St John the Divine. It is certainly worth investigating and I expect that I will like it more with increased familiarity.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Tapkaara on July 21, 2009, 09:11:35 AM
Leifs is really interesting.

I can see the comparisons between Leifs and Brian based on that monolithic, craggy, "force of nature" sound. But Brian, not the most melodic of composers, is certainly more of a melodist than Leifs! This makes Leifs a composer I can;t spend a whole day listening to, but taken in the appropriate smaller chunks, he's great!

The Saga Symphony is a very good work with some LOUD percussion. I'm a bog fan of his Organ Concerto. It is one of the angriest works I have ever heard. I really can a feel a sort of seething rage in it.

The latest BIS disc, the first installment of the Edda, was not all that impressive to me. The music is very repetitive with little contrast between sections. Did anyone else get this same feeling?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on July 21, 2009, 02:08:21 PM
Quote from: Tapkaara on July 21, 2009, 09:11:35 AM
Leifs is really interesting.

I can see the comparisons between Leifs and Brian based on that monolithic, craggy, "force of nature" sound. But Brian, not the most melodic of composers, is certainly more of a melodist than Leifs! This makes Leifs a composer I can;t spend a whole day listening to, but taken in the appropriate smaller chunks, he's great!

The Saga Symphony is a very good work with some LOUD percussion. I'm a bog fan of his Organ Concerto. It is one of the angriest works I have ever heard. I really can a feel a sort of seething rage in it.

The latest BIS disc, the first installment of the Edda, was not all that impressive to me. The music is very repetitive with little contrast between sections. Did anyone else get this same feeling?

Re Edda, yes I did but I only listened to it once and it certainly has some beautiful sections.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Tapkaara on July 21, 2009, 02:12:04 PM
Quote from: vandermolen on July 21, 2009, 02:08:21 PM
Re Edda, yes I did but I only listened to it once and it certainly has some beautiful sections.

Ahaaa...so I am not the only one who thought this.

Truth be told, Leif's soundworld is somewhat limited in general. That's why the "small chunks" are necessary (for me, anyway) when listening. Too much Leifs can cause your vision to blur and your ears to ring. But he certainly was an against the grain kind of guy, and I admire him for that.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 05, 2011, 01:21:30 PM
I bought two recordings of Leif's orchestral music last night both on BIS. The rest of the series was quite expensive, so I think I'll wait for those recordings to drop in price.


I read somewhere that he composed some of the loudest classical music ever. I'm not sure if I buy this as a marketing strategy, but it really did get my attention. :)


Of the current roster of GMG members, can any of you provide some insight into his music?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: lescamil on January 05, 2011, 06:47:48 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 05, 2011, 01:21:30 PM
I bought two recordings of Leif's orchestral music last night both on BIS. The rest of the series was quite expensive, so I think I'll wait for those recordings to drop in price.


I read somewhere that he composed some of the loudest classical music ever. I'm not sure if I buy this as a marketing strategy, but it really did get my attention. :)


Of the current roster of GMG members, can any of you provide some insight into his music?

Leifs's Hekla is the most notorious piece of his that gets touted as the loudest piece ever. If you aren't familiar, it has a percussion section that reads more like a manifest of a Scandinavian war vessel's stock room. It also has an optional chorus (included on most recordings). Not to mention, it has an organ and some really huge brass writing. It is a piece that is definitely meant for a good stereo system. He has other works that are pretty loud, like his Saga Symphony and Geysir (he has 4 tone poems based on Icelandic natural specimens), but none compare to Hekla. Seek out the Segerstam recording if you can find it. The recording on BIS is also good, but a bit slow and the microphones didn't capture some of the percussion effects as well.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 05, 2011, 06:55:25 PM
Quote from: lescamil on January 05, 2011, 06:47:48 PM
Leifs's Hekla is the most notorious piece of his that gets touted as the loudest piece ever. If you aren't familiar, it has a percussion section that reads more like a manifest of a Scandinavian war vessel's stock room. It also has an optional chorus (included on most recordings). Not to mention, it has an organ and some really huge brass writing. It is a piece that is definitely meant for a good stereo system. He has other works that are pretty loud, like his Saga Symphony and Geysir (he has 4 tone poems based on Icelandic natural specimens), but none compare to Hekla. Seek out the Segerstam recording if you can find it. The recording on BIS is also good, but a bit slow and the microphones didn't capture some of the percussion effects as well.


Thank you for your help. Hekla sounds like it's right up my alley.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: CRCulver on January 07, 2011, 01:20:44 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 05, 2011, 01:21:30 PM
The rest of the series was quite expensive, so I think I'll wait for those recordings to drop in price.

BIS never drops in price. There's an interview with Robert von Bahr where he says that he likes it that way: each recording should be treasured, while budget and midline series send people on collecting sprees without appreciating what they have.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 07, 2011, 07:38:05 AM
Quote from: CRCulver on January 07, 2011, 01:20:44 AM
BIS never drops in price. There's an interview with Robert von Bahr where he says that he likes it that way: each recording should be treasured, while budget and midline series send people on collecting sprees without appreciating what they have.


Thankfully, I use Amazon Marketplace and usually they offer BIS discs at way better prices than any other websites.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on August 22, 2011, 10:03:14 AM
Thought I would resurrect this thread and say that Leifs's music is simply magnificent! It is wise to take his music in small doses as advised in this thread earlier because of it's force, inherent ruggedness, and the sheer volume of many of works.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 14, 2013, 03:41:25 PM
How appropriate that I'm starting a Leifs marathon around the time I bought most of his recordings on BIS in January of 2011. :) Anyway, what can I say, the guy is just awesome. As mentioned many times, nature plays a huge role in many of Leifs' works, but this shouldn't diminish the other side of Leifs' music, which is very personal and introspective I'm thinking here of his String Quartet No. 2 (dedicated to the memory of his daughter), Elegy (written in memory of his mother), Requiem (for a cappella mixed choir), Reminiscence du Nord, among others. While some may think of his music is rather limited, I urge these people to look outside of those earthly tone poems and into the more personal side to his music, although I do love those huge works a lot.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: The new erato on January 15, 2013, 01:50:13 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 22, 2011, 10:03:14 AM
Thought I would resurrect this thread and say that Leifs's music is simply magnificent! It is wise to take his music in small doses as advised in this thread earlier because of it's force, inherent ruggedness, and the sheer volume of many of works.
Well, of the Leifs's I've heard the one I like the most are the string quartets, and they are exactly the opposite. Very interesting and intimate works, but still highly original.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 15, 2013, 08:13:42 AM
Quote from: CRCulver on January 07, 2011, 01:20:44 AM
BIS never drops in price. There's an interview with Robert von Bahr where he says that he likes it that way: each recording should be treasured, while budget and midline series send people on collecting sprees without appreciating what they have.

In a sense, I can appreciate this view. This said, I have bought many BIS recordings below full market price, which is always a good thing. I think highly of their recordings though regardless of the price. In Scandinavian music, they're almost unmatched.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 15, 2013, 11:51:18 AM
A few questions:

1. How did Leifs arrive at his compositional voice? It's so singular and unique.

2. Does anyone know where I could find a copy of the film Tears of Stone? I'm quite interested in watching this film.

3. Does anyone own the Chandos recording with Petri Sakari? Is it any good? I own all the BIS recordings, so I'm now looking at performances outside that stellar series.

Thanks.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 11:30:00 AM
Hey, snyprrr, help me keep the this Leifs thread afloat!

What do you think about his music? What have you heard? Do you own any recordings of his music? The BIS series is indispensable.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 12:50:37 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 11:30:00 AM
help me keep the this Leifs thread afloat!

I'll certainly help!!
John, you were certainly right when you said this composer would be my kind of composer! ;) Wow - this composer is incredible!! Listened to the Icelandic Overture a few days ago and was very impressed, and am currently listening to Geysir. This is great! What a thrilling climax in particular, INCREDIBLE orchestration! So much percussion! :D :D

Very keen to hear more of his music, and am very interested to find out more about the man himself. I mean, his music is quite unlike anything I've ever heard!! What was his lifestory and how did it drive him to this incredible, other-worldly music?!

Geysir has converted me into a might enthusiastic Leif-fan and I can't wait to hear more!! :D 
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 12:55:43 PM
Hey, Daniel! I'm glad you're enjoying the music. Leifs music continues to grow on me the more I listen to it. His sound-world is unlike any composer I've heard. What I'm trying to figure out is how he came to form his style of composition. Besides the explosive and volcanic tone poems, he has composed some rather lyrical and introspective works as well, but it is these earth-shattering works that continue to get attention from listeners. There's still several works I haven't heard yet. Like the work Viking's Answer which, from what I've read, is a hotbed of aggression and anger. Right up my alley! :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 01:00:02 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 12:55:43 PM
Hey, Daniel! I'm glad you're enjoying the music. Leifs music continues to grow on me the more I listen to it. His sound-world is unlike any composer I've heard. What I'm trying to figure out is how he came to form his style of composition. Besides the explosive and volcanic tone poems, he has composed some rather lyrical and introspective works as well, but it is these earth-shattering works that continue to get attention from listeners. There's still several works I haven't heard yet. Like the work Viking's Answer which, from what I've read, is a hotbed of aggression and anger. Right up my alley! :)

Thank you, John, and thank you for introducing me to him in the first place! Listening to Geysir over and over as it's so incredible!! I can't wait to hear more of his works. Yes, that's something I'm trying to figure out as well, as his music is just so other-worldly and different! What are your thoughts on this so far?
I look forward to hearing that other side of his work too. I might have to buy the cd with Geysir on it, the other works also sound great. The Consolation I can imagine being very profound and beautiful considering when it was written, but I do wonder how this translates from the Leifs I have heard so far....
Looking forward to finding out!! :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 01:10:12 PM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 01:00:02 PM
Thank you, John, and thank you for introducing me to him in the first place! Listening to Geysir over and over as it's so incredible!! I can't wait to hear more of his works. Yes, that's something I'm trying to figure out as well, as his music is just so other-worldly and different! What are your thoughts on this so far?
I look forward to hearing that other side of his work too. I might have to buy the cd with Geysir on it, the other works also sound great. The Consolation I can imagine being very profound and beautiful considering when it was written, but I do wonder how this translates from the Leifs I have heard so far....
Looking forward to finding out!! :)

You're welcome, my friend. Anytime I can introduce new music to people is a great privilege. I would say that a lot of Leifs' anger comes from, and this is just a guess and a personal assessment, the cool reception his music met and from the constant harassment he received from the Nazis (his wife was Jewish) during his stay in Germany. But there's also the devastation he felt from the loss of his daughter (she drowned in a swimming accident). I would say these were all negative points in his life that contributed to the outward emotional aggressiveness of his music. The question of how he formed his style is something that I'm trying to figure out. He chose a rather stark way of representing his musical ideas. Sometimes the orchestration is so bareboned that you wonder what is holding this music together. I know a work like Hekla was inspired by Leifs himself witnessing the eruption of that volcano. Those huge crackling noises in that work is the molten lava overflowing from the volcano. Anyway, the landscape of Iceland played a crucial element in his music, but it's interesting to hear those works that are more personal as well.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 01:27:51 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 01:10:12 PM
You're welcome, my friend. Anytime I can introduce new music to people is a great privilege. I would say that a lot of Leifs' anger comes from, and this is just a guess and a personal assessment, the cool reception his music met and from the constant harassment he received from the Nazis (his wife was Jewish) during his stay in Germany. But there's also the devastation he felt from the loss of his daughter (she drowned in a swimming accident). I would say these were all negative points in his life that contributed to the outward emotional aggressiveness of his music. The question of how he formed his style is something that I'm trying to figure out. He chose a rather stark way of representing his musical ideas. Sometimes the orchestration is so bareboned that you wonder what is holding this music together. I know a work like Hekla was inspired by Leifs himself witnessing the eruption of that volcano. Those huge crackling noises in that work is the molten lava overflowing from the volcano. Anyway, the landscape of Iceland played a crucial element in his music, but it's interesting to hear those works that are more personal as well.
Thank you, John - and it's always a great privilege to be introduced to one so enthusiastically from you!
Ah yes, I read about those tragedies which must have made a massive impact on him and his music. Wasn't it also true that some believed him to have Nazi-sympathies himself?
I am very interested to hear his earlier works, and to see what his earlier style was like. What do you think, John?
And yes, how did he develop this style? Were there any composers that particularly influenced him? I have to admit to not really knowing much about the Icelandic musical scene at the time. No-one is quite like him!!

Can't get Geysir out of my mind, it's so incredible! It's been a while since a piece had such an impact on me on just first hearing!! :D
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 01:52:14 PM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 01:27:51 PM
Thank you, John - and it's always a great privilege to be introduced to one so enthusiastically from you!
Ah yes, I read about those tragedies which must have made a massive impact on him and his music. Wasn't it also true that some believed him to have Nazi-sympathies himself?
I am very interested to hear his earlier works, and to see what his earlier style was like. What do you think, John?
And yes, how did he develop this style? Were there any composers that particularly influenced him? I have to admit to not really knowing much about the Icelandic musical scene at the time. No-one is quite like him!!

Can't get Geysir out of my mind, it's so incredible! It's been a while since a piece had such an impact on me on just first hearing!! :D

The earliest composition of Leifs' is Trilogia piccola, Op. 1 and this work already has his stylistic elements in place. A very primitive sounding work like many of his later compositions. This work was written in the early 1920s. I think, and, again, this is just a guess, that he worked long and hard to forge his own style before he was happy with any of it which means that he could have written music early on that he wasn't particularly proud of so threw the music in the garbage until he was satisfied. It should be noted that many of his works were never even premiered until after his death. I could be wrong and getting some dates messed up of course. This is why I need to go read through those BIS liner notes since there's not a lot of information on the composer's oeuvre.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 01:57:32 PM
JON LEIFS: A CATALOGUE OF THE ORCHESTRA: MUSIC

1915-25: "Loftr-Suite" for orchestra, op.6a: 12 minutes + (BIS cd)
1917-30: Organ Concerto, op.7: 19 minutes + (BIS cd)
1919-24: "Trologia piccola" for orchestra, op.1: 11 minutes + (BIS cd)
1920-30: Variations on a Theme by Ludwig van Beethoven for orchestra, op.8:
11 minutes + (BIS cd)
1926: Iceland Overture for chorus and orchestra, op.9: 11 minutes + (Chandos
and BIS cds)
1927: Overture "Loftr", op.10: 7 minutes + (BIS cd)
1929/31: Icelandic Folk Dances for orchestra, op.11: 12 minutes + (BIS cd)
1929/36: "Lullaby" for mezzo-soprano and orchestra, op.14a, No.2: 2 minutes
+ (BIS cd)
1930: Iceland Cantata for chorus and orchestra, op.13: 20 minutes
+ (Chandos and BIS cds)
"Moon Song" for mezzo-soprano and orchestra, op.14a, No.1: 1 minute
+ (BIS cd)
1930-39: Oratorio "Edda I: The Creation of the World" for tenor, bass-baritone,
chorus and orchestra: 76 minutes + (BIS cd)
1940: "The Lay of Gudrun" for mezzo-soprano, tenor, bass and orchestra, op.22:
10 minutes + (BIS cd)
1941-42: Saga Symphony, op.26: 54 minutes + (BIS cd)
1951-66: Oratorio "Edda II: The Lives of the Gods" for soloists, chorus and orchestra,
op.42
1952: "Reminiscence du Nord" for string orchestra, op.40: 15 minutes
+ (BIS cd)
1955: Overture "Landfall" for chorus and orchestra, op. 41: 9 minutes + (BIS cd)
"Trois pentures abstraites" for orchestra, op.44: 5 minutes + (BIS cd)
1958: "Spring Song" for chorus and orchestra, op. 46: 4 minutes + (BIS cd)
1961: "Jonas Hallgrimsson in memoriam" for chorus and orchestra, op.48:
6 minutes + (BIS cd)
Prelude "Geysir" for orchestra, op.51: 9 minutes + (BIS cd)
"Hekla" for chorus and orchestra, op.52: 11 minutes + (BIS cd)
Elegy(In memoriam) for string orchestra, op.53: 7 minutes
+ (Chandos and BIS cds)
1962: Intermezzo "Viking's Answer" for wind ensemble, percussion, violas and
double-basses, op.54: 3 minutes + (BIS cd)
1963: "Fine I" for orchestra, op.55: 3 minutes + (Chandos and BIS cds)
"Fine II" for vibraphone and string orchestra, op.56: 6 minutes
+ (Chandos and BIS cds)
1964: "Dettifoss" for baritone, chorus and orchestra, op.57: 16 minutes
+ (BIS cd)
"Scherzo concreto" for chamber ensemble, op.58
"Night" for tenor, baritone and small orchestra, op.59: 12 minutes
+ (BIS cd)
"Song of Durrud" for chorus and orchestra, op. 60
"The Lay of Helgi the Hunding-slayer" for contralto, bass and small
orchestra, op.61: 8 minutes + (BIS cd)
1965: "Groa's Spell" for contralto, tenor and orchestra, op.62: 18 minute + (BIS cd)
"Hafis" for chorus and orchestra, op.63: 17 minutes + (BIS cd)
1966-68: Oratorio "Edda III: The Twilight of the Gods" for soloists, chorus and
orchestra, op.65 (incomplete)
1968: Intermezzo "Consolation"

(All taken from Colin's website)

His list is the ONLY one I could find on the Internet! How crazy is that! Anyway, I hope Colin doesn't mind me copying it here.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 02:04:43 PM
The Leifs series on BIS:

(http://classicdisc.de/joomla15/components/com_virtuemart/shop_image/product/Leifs__Vikingasv_4cc19326754ad.jpg) (http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h6433/4446433-origpic-d9ebd8.jpg) (http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h3662/4433662-origpic-79369b.jpg) (http://www.cdvpodarok.ru/cd/20/017_big/Leifs+Hafis+.jpg)

(http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h5317/4445317-origpic-1ede50.jpg) (http://img12.nnm.ru/8/5/d/6/4/063e9054831e4c04ac849f01033.jpg) (http://static.qobuz.com/images/jaquettes/7318/7318591230311_600.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51bFlJpeheL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

(http://www.jpc.de/image/w600/front/0/7318599913506.jpg) (http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h6951/4456951-origpic-894e56.jpg)

The only one I don't own is the recording of the solo piano music, which is very expensive.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 02:12:39 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 01:52:14 PM
The earliest composition of Leifs' is Trilogia piccola, Op. 1 and this work already has his stylistic elements in place. A very primitive sounding work like many of his later compositions. This work was written in the early 1920s. I think, and, again, this is just a guess, that he worked long and hard to forge his own style before he was happy with any of it which means that he could have written music early on that he wasn't particularly proud of so threw the music in the garbage until he was satisfied. It should be noted that many of his works were never even premiered until after his death. I could be wrong and getting some dates messed up of course. This is why I need to go read through those BIS liner notes since there's not a lot of information on the composer's oeuvre.

Thank you for the feedback, John. I believe that Trilogia piccola is also featured on the cd with Geysir which I am planning to get, so I shall look forward to getting that.

I'd be interested in hearing all of those BIS recordings so hope to get them at some point! It's great that a lot of his music is on youtube, although I would love to hear those climaxes on proper sound systems! ;)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 02:19:40 PM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 02:12:39 PM
Thank you for the feedback, John. I believe that Trilogia piccola is also featured on the cd with Geysir which I am planning to get, so I shall look forward to getting that.

I'd be interested in hearing all of those BIS recordings so hope to get them at some point! It's great that a lot of his music is on youtube, although I would love to hear those climaxes on proper sound systems! ;)

No problem, Daniel. Yes, Triloga piccola is featured on the Geysir recording along with another early work Icelandic Folk Dances. The whole series as I have mentioned before is an essential acquisition for anyone who wants to explore a 20th Century composer with singular style and sound-world. All of those tone poems: Hekla, Dettifoss, Hafis, and Geysir should be required listening in a 20th Century course at universities, but, like as mentioned, his other music shouldn't be ignored either. That work I sent you Réminiscence du Nord (written for string orchestra) is as powerful and evocative as any of those large tone poems.

As always, enjoy the music!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 16, 2013, 02:21:56 PM
Thank you very much, John! Very excited to continue exploring his music! :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 02:48:25 PM
Wait until you hear Baldr, Daniel. Described as a choreographic drama in two acts for tenor, chorus, organ, and large orchestra. There really isn't much singing at all and this has to be counted as some of the most brutal, primal music of the 20th Century. Le Sacre du Printemps and Miraculous Mandarin are walks in the park compared to Baldr.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Fafner on January 16, 2013, 03:11:36 PM
I just listened to Hekla on BIS and I am definitely intrigued. I will give this Leifs guy a try. :)
I should certainly get a pair of better speakers though.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:14:52 PM
Quote from: Fafner on January 16, 2013, 03:11:36 PM
I just listened to Hekla on BIS and I am definitely intrigued. I will give this Leifs guy a try. :)
I should certainly get a pair of better speakers though.

Hekla is a great work. Do you own the Leifs BIS series? I bought mine all pretty much at the same time, but only recently have been able to acquire the Works for Voices and Orchestra and Edda recordings for a decent price.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Fafner on January 16, 2013, 03:23:34 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:14:52 PM
Hekla is a great work. Do you own the Leifs BIS series? I bought mine all pretty much at the same time, but only recently have been able to acquire the Works for Voices and Orchestra and Edda recordings for a decent price.

I don't own any of the discs, but I have a Naxos streaming subscription and on top of the entire Naxos catalogue it also includes production of other small labels. BIS is just one out of many and they are adding more all the time.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:26:07 PM
Quote from: Fafner on January 16, 2013, 03:23:34 PM
I don't own any of the discs, but I have a Naxos streaming subscription and on top of the entire Naxos catalogue it also includes production of other small labels. BIS is just one out of many and they are adding more all the time.

That's definitely one advantage of having a paid subscription to NML. I'm still an old-fashioned collector and prefer CDs over anything streamed or downloaded.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:27:28 PM
By the way, Fafner, have you by chance been a member of any other online classical forum?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Fafner on January 16, 2013, 03:30:54 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:27:28 PM
By the way, Fafner, have you by chance been a member of any other online classical forum?

Not really. I may have registered at Classical Music & Opera Forums some time ago, but I certainly was not active.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:32:42 PM
Well, I'm certainly glad you're here on GMG. The only reason I asked if you had been a member of any other classical forum is because I used to be pretty good friends with someone in the Czech Republic on the TalkClassical forum.

GMG is a great forum and, though, I've certainly isolated myself from some of the people on this forum for one reason or another, there are many knowledgeable, friendly people here. I may clash with some of them from time to time, but that's going to happen anywhere you go. A person certainly can't 'play it safe' all the time.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Fafner on January 16, 2013, 03:47:53 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:26:07 PM
That's definitely one advantage of having a paid subscription to NML. I'm still an old-fashioned collector and prefer CDs over anything streamed or downloaded.

I prefer physical CDs over streaming and downloads as well, but it is great to be able to sample a much wider spectrum of music before you really commit.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 03:52:06 PM
Quote from: Fafner on January 16, 2013, 03:47:53 PM
I prefer physical CDs over streaming and downloads as well, but it is great to be able to sample a much wider spectrum of music before you really commit.

YouTube can be used for this as well. It will at least give you an idea of the music.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 04:38:47 PM
Getting back to Leifs, those that have heard Edda, what do you think about it? I sampled some of it on BIS' website before buying it and it sounded great. All of those Leifs' trademarks are there: the pounding rhythms, the icy silences which seem to evoke vast, desolate plains, and lots of Nordic rage.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: springrite on January 16, 2013, 05:50:39 PM
I only have the quartets. So it seems I only have the quite Leifs.

John, you are costing me more money.


Again.


I know, I know. I have done that to you as well.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 05:58:56 PM
Quote from: springrite on January 16, 2013, 05:50:39 PM
I only have the quartets. So it seems I only have the quite Leifs.

John, you are costing me more money.


Again.


I know, I know. I have done that to you as well.

Lol...:D

You'll really get a kick out of Leifs' orchestral works, Paul. Like I've said many posts back, his quieter, more intimate side is remarkable too (this includes many orchestral works outside of the SQs).
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Christo on January 16, 2013, 11:42:55 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 15, 2013, 11:51:18 AM
A few questions:

1. How did Leifs arrive at his compositional voice? It's so singular and unique.

2. Does anyone know where I could find a copy of the film Tears of Stone? I'm quite interested in watching this film.

3. Does anyone own the Chandos recording with Petri Sakari? Is it any good? I own all the BIS recordings, so I'm now looking at performances outside that stellar series.

Thanks.

Great to read your enthusiasm for a 'new' composer here popping up in a whole series of posts that really trigger us to explore him again.  ;) I didn't play his music for over ten years and missed the newer installments by BIS, but am at the moment listening to Fine II, representing his 'other' (thoughtful) style.

Re 2: I own the film in the (European) VCH format, but didn't like it at all; a melodrama that doesn't learn us much about the composer, IMHO.

Re 3: You know the answer, no doubt. :-) It's very good but no longer indispensable, since all five pieces have been recorded by BIS as well (I always lived with these version by Sakari and don't know how they compare, but Sakari is fine).
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 17, 2013, 07:45:46 AM
Quote from: Christo on January 16, 2013, 11:42:55 PM
Great to read your enthusiasm for a 'new' composer here popping up in a whole series of posts that really trigger us to explore him again.  ;) I didn't play his music for over ten years and missed the newer installments by BIS, but am at the moment listening to Fine II, representing his 'other' (thoughtful) style.

Re 2: I own the film in the (European) VCH format, but didn't like it at all; a melodrama that doesn't learn us much about the composer, IMHO.

Re 3: You know the answer, no doubt. :-) It's very good but no longer indispensable, since all five pieces have been recorded by BIS as well (I always lived with these version by Sakari and don't know how they compare, but Sakari is fine).

Thanks for the feedback, Christo! It's a shame Tears of Stone isn't a standard documentary about his life. That would have been much more interesting then simply watching a movie about his life with actors/actresses and so forth. That wouldn't appeal to me. I prefer factual information and from hearing from people that knew the man whether positive or negative. Leifs is a composer I've come to appreciate over a period of time. I didn't take to his idiom that quickly, but once I heard a variety of works from him, I had a newfound respect for the music. His music isn't all fire and brimstone, it has so much more going for it like those lamenting string works that reveal an inner sadness not heard through his more 'public' works. Good to see you've been listening to him again.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 17, 2013, 10:04:41 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 02:48:25 PM
Wait until you hear Baldr, Daniel. Described as a choreographic drama in two acts for tenor, chorus, organ, and large orchestra. There really isn't much singing at all and this has to be counted as some of the most brutal, primal music of the 20th Century. Le Sacre du Printemps and Miraculous Mandarin are walks in the park compared to Baldr.

:o Is that really possible? ;)  This is a work I will have to hear!! :D
Will hope to listen to some more Leifs this evening. :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 17, 2013, 06:01:46 PM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 17, 2013, 10:04:41 AM
:o Is that really possible? ;)  This is a work I will have to hear!! :D
Will hope to listen to some more Leifs this evening. :)

Oh yes, it's possible. :D What works have you heard so far, Daniel?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 17, 2013, 07:11:28 PM
By the way, Baldr will blow a toupee clean off a guy's head, so don't play this work around any bald guys. ;)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 05:58:10 AM
Here is a complete list of Leifs' compositions:

Vokudraumur (Reverie), piano (1913) [no opus number]
Trilogia piccola, orchestra, op. 1 (1919-24)
Torrek (Intermezzo), piano, op. 1, no. 2 (1919)
4 Pieces, piano, op. 2 (1922)
Praeludium e fuga, violin, op. 3 (1924)
[3 Songs], soprano/tenor and piano, op. 4 (1924)
    - A King's Child, soprano/tenor and piano, op. 4, no. 1 (1924)
    - I Was Young, soprano/tenor and piano, op. 4, no. 2 (1924)
    - Die Beasts, soprano/tenor and piano, op. 4, no. 3 (1924)
Organ Prelude, op. 5, no. 1 (1924)
Kyrie,chorus, op. 5, no. 2 (1924)
Galdra-Loftr, incidental music, op.6 (1915-25)
25 islensk thjoolog (Icelandic Folksongs), piano (1925) [no opus number]
Organ Concerto, op. 7 (1917-30)
Variazioni pastorale (Variationen uber ein Thema von Beethoven), orchestra, op. 8 (1920-30; arr. for string qt, 1937)
Minni Islands (Icelandic Overture), chorus and orchestra, op. 9 (1926)
Galdra-Loftr Overture,  orchestra, op. 10 (1927)
Islensk rimnadanslog (Icelandic Dances), piano, op. 11 (1929) [also arr. for male chorus]
3 Church Songs (Hymns), voice and piano/organ, op. 12a (1929)
    - Be Thou, O Father, voice and piano/organ, op. 12a, no. 1 (1929)
    - As, In a Dewy Meadow, voice and piano/organ, op. 12a, no. 2 (1929)
    - Arise My Soul, voice and piano/organ, op. 12a, no. 3 (1929)
Thjoohvot (Iceland Cantata), chorus and orchestra, op. 13 (1929-30)
2 Songs, voice and piano, op. 14a (1929-30)
    - Now Glides the Moon, voice and piano, op. 14a, no. 1 (1930)
    - Cradle Song, voice and piano, op. 14a, no. 2 (1929)
Ny rimnadanslog (New Icelandic Dances), piano, op. 14b (1931; arr. for male voices, 1955)
Islendingaljoo (Poems of Icelanders), male chorus, op. 15a (1931)
Sjavarvisur (Ocean Verses), male chorus, op. 15b (c. 1931)
3 Organ Preludes, op. 16 (1931)
Islenskir songdansar (Icelandic Dance-Songs), chorus, and instruments ad lib. , op. 17a (c. 1931)
3 islensk salmalog (3 Icelandic Hymns), chorus and organ, op. 17b (c. 1932-40)
2 Songs, voice and piano, op. 18a (1931)
    - Good Night, voice and piano, op. 18[a], no. 1 (1931)
    - Reimweise (Rhyme), voice and piano, op. 18a, no. 2 (1931)
2 Songs of the Edda (Love Verses from the Edda), tenor and piano, op. 18b (1931-32)
    - Long is One Night, tenor and piano, op. 18b, no. 1 (1931)
    - In the Courts of Gymir, tenor and piano, op. 18b, no. 2 (1931)
Nocturne, harp, op. 19a (c. 1934)
2 Icelandic Folk Songs, voice and piano, op. 19b (1934)
    - Slumber Dearest Child of Mine, voice and piano, op. 19b, no. 1 (1934)
    - Fjords of Thousand Islands, voice and piano, op. 19b, no. 2 (1934)
Edda I, 'Skopun heimsins' (The Creation of the World), oratorio, tenor, baritone, chorus and orchestra, op. 20 (1935-39)
Quartetto I, 'Mors et vita', string quartet, op. 21 (1939)
Guorunarkvioa (The Lay of Gudrun), mezzo-soprano, tenor, bass and orchestra, op. 22 (1940)
3 Songs, voice and piano, op. 23 (1941)
3 Saga Songs (3 Songs from Icelandic Sagas), tenor and piano, op. 24 (1941)
    - tenor and piano, op. 24, no. 1 (1941)
    - Love Poems to Steingerdur, tenor and piano, op. 24, no. 2 (1941)
    - Haugskvida Gunnars, tenor and piano, op. 24, no. 3 (1941)
Songs from the Saga Symphony, tenor and piano, op. 25 (1941)
    - Skarphedinn's Song When Burning, tenor and piano, op. 25, no. 1 (1941)
    - Exhortations to the Farmshands, tenor and piano, op. 25, no. 2 (1941)
Sinfonia I 'Soguhetjur' (Saga Heroes; Saga-Symphony),  orchestra, op. 26 (1941-42)
3 aettjaroarsongvar (3 Patriotic Songs), male chorus, op. 27 (1927-43)
3 songvar eftir Jonas Ballgrimsson (3 Verses by Jonas Hallgrimsson), chorus, op. 28 (1943)
Islendingaljoo (Poems of Icelanders), male chorus, op. 29 (1943)
Islendingaljoo (Poems of Icelanders), chorus, op. 30 (1943)
3 Ancient Songs, voice and piano, op. 31 (1944)
3 althyousongvar (3 Folksongs), chorus, op. 32 (1945)
Torrek, voice and piano, op. 33a (1947)
Requiem, chorus, op. 33b (1947)
Baldr, choreographic drama, tenor, chorus and orchestra, op.34 (1943-47)
Erfiljoo (Elegies - In Memoriam), mezzo-soprano, male chorus and violin, op. 35 (1947)
Quartetto II, 'Vita et mors', string quartet, op. 36 (1948-51)
Fjallasongvar (Mountain Verses), mezzo-soprano, baritone, male chorus, timpani, percussion and double bass, op. 37 (1948)
Thorgeroarlog (Songs of Thorgerdur), male chorus, flute, viola and cello, op. 38 (1948)
2 songvar (2 Songs), male chorus, op. 39 (1948-61)
Reminiscence du nord (Reflections from the North), string orchestra, op. 40 (1952)
Landsyn (Landfall) [Overture], male chorus and orchestra, op. 41 (1955)
Edda II, 'Lif guoanna' (The Lives of the Gods), oratorio, soli, chorus and orchestra, op. 42 (1951-66)
Baptism Invocation, baritone and organ, op. 43 (1957)
3 peintures abstraites,  orchestra, op. 44 (1955-60)
Memorial Songs on the Death of Jónas Hallgrímsson, mezzo-soprano/baritone and piano, op. 45 (1958)
    - Homesickness, mezzo-soprano/baritone and piano, op. 45, no. 1 (1958)
    - Solstice, mezzo-soprano/baritone and piano, op. 45, no. 2 (1958)
    - Hearts Rise Up, mezzo-soprano/baritone and piano, op. 45, no. 3 (1958)
Vorvisa (Spring Verse), chorus and orchestra, op. 46 (1958)
Turmglockenspiel uber Themen aus Beethovens Neunter Symphonie, carillon (1958) [no opus number]
Das Leben musS trotz Allem stets weiter gehen, carillon (1958) [no opus number]
Es ist ein Ros entsprungen, folksong, chorus (arr. 1958) [no opus number]
Stand, House of Stone, tenor and piano, op. 47a (1958)
Veourvisur (Weather Verses), male chorus, op. 47b (1961)
Jonasar minni Hallgrimssonar (Jónas Hallgrímsson in memoriam), chorus and orchestra, op. 48 (1961)
Strakalag (Boy's Song), piano, op. 49 (1960)
Quintetto, flute, clarinet, bassoon, viola, cello, op. 50 (1960)
Geysir,  orchestra, op. 51 (1961)
Hekla, chorus and orchestra, op. 52 (1961)
Hinsta kveoja (Elegy),  orchestra, op. 53 (1961)
Vikingasvar (A Viking's Answer),  wind ensemble, percussion, violas and double bass, op. 54 (1962)
Fine I,  orchestra, op. 55 (1963)
Fine II,  orchestra, op. 56 (1963)
Dettifoss, baritone, chorus and orchestra, op. 57 (1964)
Scherzo concreto, pic, fl, ob, eng hn, cl, bn, trbn, tuba, va, vc, op. 58 (1964)
Nott (Night), tenor, bass & small orchestra, op. 59 (1964)
Darraoarljoo (Song of Dorrud/Njal's Saga), chorus and orchestra, op. 60 (1964)
Helga kvioa Bundingsbana (The Lay of Helgi the Bunding-Slayer), alto, bass and orchestra, op. 61 (1964)
Grogaldr (The Spell of Groa), alto, tenor and orchestra, op. 62 (1965)
Hafis (Drift Ice), chorus and orchestra, op. 63 (1965)
Quartetto III, 'EI Greco', string quartet, op. 64 (1965)
Heilsuheimt (Health Regained), chorus (arr. 1965) [orig. work of L. van Beethoven, op. 132, no. 2]
Edda III, 'Ragnarok' (The Twilight of the Gods), oratorio, soli, choruses and orchestra, op. 65 (1966-68, incomplete)
Hughreysting (Consolation),  orchestra, op. 66 (1968)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: springrite on January 18, 2013, 05:59:58 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 17, 2013, 07:11:28 PM
By the way, Baldr will blow a toupee clean off a guy's head, so don't play this work around any bald guys. ;)
It blew mine off and I don't even wear a toupee!

Note to self: Never listen to Leifs on headphone again.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 06:03:32 AM
Quote from: springrite on January 18, 2013, 05:59:58 AM
It blew mine off and I don't even wear a toupee!

Note to self: Never listen to Leifs on headphone again.

:D

I enjoy listening to classical music on headphones, but with Leifs you have to be careful. Those thunderous passages will really put the hurting on the ol' eardrums. Best thing for me is to listen at a moderate volume.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 18, 2013, 06:06:56 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 17, 2013, 06:01:46 PM
Oh yes, it's possible. :D What works have you heard so far, Daniel?

:D
Only two at the moment, John: the Icelandic Overture and Geysir. But just those two themselves were enough to convert me into a massive Leifs fan! Very excited to hear more, I'll listen to some more of the links you posted on my facebook this evening, and will hopefully buy the Geysir cd very soon. :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 06:12:28 AM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 18, 2013, 06:06:56 AM
:D
Only two at the moment, John: the Icelandic Overture and Geysir. But just those two themselves were enough to convert me into a massive Leifs fan! Very excited to hear more, I'll listen to some more of the links you posted on my facebook this evening, and will hopefully buy the Geysir cd very soon. :)

Great to hear, Daniel! Have you spent your Christmas money yet? That "Geysir" recording on BIS is fantastic, but all of them are.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 18, 2013, 06:26:12 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 06:12:28 AM
Great to hear, Daniel! Have you spent your Christmas money yet? That "Geysir" recording on BIS is fantastic, but all of them are.
Thank you, John! :)
No, not yet. Will definitely get the Geysir disc, and then either the Liadov or Bavouzet Ravel PCs. Whichever other one I'll put straight on the birthday list ;)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 06:36:40 AM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 18, 2013, 06:26:12 AM
Thank you, John! :)
No, not yet. Will definitely get the Geysir disc, and then either the Liadov or Bavouzet Ravel PCs. Whichever other one I'll put straight on the birthday list ;)

Great! Here are the contents of the Geysir BIS recording:

1.   Geysir, Op.51 (1961) Prelude for orchestra   9'46

Trilogia piccola, Op.1
  2.   I. Praeludium (1920-1922)   5'05
  3.   II. Intermezzo (1919-1923)   4'15
  4.   III. Finale (1920-1924)   2'12

Trois peintures abstraites, Op.44 (1955)
  5.   I. Fegurd himinsins   3'21
  6.   II. Vixlspor   0'54
  7.   III. Klettar   1'32

Icelandic Folk Dances, Op.11 (1929/31)
  8.   I. Allegretto   4'06
  9.   II. Tempo giusto   3'07
  10.   III. Allegro moderato ed energico   3'13
  11.   IV. Allegro Vivace   1'46

  12.   Overture to 'Loftr', Op.10 (1927)   7'33

  13.   Consolation, Intermezzo for string orchestra, Op.66 (1968)   6'20

Iceland Symphony Orchestra
Osmo Vänskä, conductor

Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 05:29:20 PM
Daniel, did you listen to any Leifs today?

Edit: I see you listened to Geysir again. Wait until you hear Hekla, Hafis, and Dettifoss. As an old saying goes, you haven't heard nothing yet. ;) :D
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 07:28:37 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 16, 2013, 02:04:43 PM
The Leifs series on BIS:

(http://classicdisc.de/joomla15/components/com_virtuemart/shop_image/product/Leifs__Vikingasv_4cc19326754ad.jpg) (http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h6433/4446433-origpic-d9ebd8.jpg) (http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h3662/4433662-origpic-79369b.jpg) (http://www.cdvpodarok.ru/cd/20/017_big/Leifs+Hafis+.jpg)

(http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h5317/4445317-origpic-1ede50.jpg) (http://img12.nnm.ru/8/5/d/6/4/063e9054831e4c04ac849f01033.jpg) (http://static.qobuz.com/images/jaquettes/7318/7318591230311_600.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51bFlJpeheL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)

(http://www.jpc.de/image/w600/front/0/7318599913506.jpg) (http://www.eclassical.com/shop/17115/art15/h6951/4456951-origpic-894e56.jpg)

The only one I don't own is the recording of the solo piano music, which is very expensive.

Daniel, just in case you missed this post. Recent news: I received Edda Part 1: The Creation of the World today. Really looking forward to digging into that one. I'm still waiting on the Voices and Orchestra recording.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 19, 2013, 06:14:16 PM
I've been enjoying Edda: The Creation of the World. Stylistically, it's not a world away from Baldr, but while Baldr is more primitive, Edda has many more ethereal, transcendent moments in the work. I wouldn't say it's an immediate success, but I have no qualms with it right now. Performances are exemplary.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 20, 2013, 03:48:49 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 18, 2013, 05:29:20 PM
Daniel, did you listen to any Leifs today?

Edit: I see you listened to Geysir again. Wait until you hear Hekla, Hafis, and Dettifoss. As an old saying goes, you haven't heard nothing yet. ;) :D

Hi John, think I might listen to Hekla today, sounds thrilling! :D
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: The new erato on January 20, 2013, 05:09:55 AM
(http://www.musicalobservations.com/images/cp2_106_107_big.jpg)

I have this, bought back in the days before the BIS series started.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 20, 2013, 06:53:30 AM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 20, 2013, 03:48:49 AM
Hi John, think I might listen to Hekla today, sounds thrilling! :D

Excellent, please share your thoughts here, Daniel.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 20, 2013, 06:54:23 AM
Quote from: The new erato on January 20, 2013, 05:09:55 AM
(http://www.musicalobservations.com/images/cp2_106_107_big.jpg)

I have this, bought back in the days before the BIS series started.

How is this recording, erato?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: The new erato on January 20, 2013, 06:57:24 AM
Very good both sonically and in other ways. I've never found a reason to search out the BIS version (even though owning a few other of their Leifs discs). And I'm not saying this to win a bet.....  ;)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Cato on January 20, 2013, 07:14:31 AM
YouTube offers nice introductions to a good number of works by Leifs:

http://www.youtube.com/v/Rx3fBqm3nBc
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 20, 2013, 07:22:48 AM
Quote from: The new erato on January 20, 2013, 06:57:24 AM
Very good both sonically and in other ways. I've never found a reason to search out the BIS version (even though owning a few other of their Leifs discs). And I'm not saying this to win a bet.....  ;)

Thanks. Yeah, I probably won't search out an alternative performance to Baldr. I'm quite content with the BIS recording.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 20, 2013, 07:24:18 AM
Quote from: Cato on January 20, 2013, 07:14:31 AM
YouTube offers nice introductions to a good number of works by Leifs:

http://www.youtube.com/v/Rx3fBqm3nBc

Being able to sample a lot of music for free is definitely an advantage of YouTube. They do have many Leifs works on there.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 20, 2013, 02:06:34 PM
:o

Listened to Reminiscence du Nord and Hekla for the first time this evening. AWESOME!

Reminiscence du Nord was incredibly beautiful. Very powerful and moving. The orchestration just with the strings was incredibly impressive too.
Hekla completely blew my mind! Must contain nearly every instrument possible! ;) In addition to organ, choir, hammers, gun shots etc, I think I also heard the ondes martinot too! :D Out of this world, and yes John, I think I might have to listen to the Rite of Spring to calm down a little ;)

INCREDIBLE MUSIC! This composer is definitely becoming one of my favourites! GENIUS! :D
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Cato on January 20, 2013, 02:39:29 PM
To paraphrase a famous American:

What hath Leifs wrought?

LEIFSMANIA  0:)  continues with...

Hekla via YouTube with the claim "Fastest Rendition"  (Is that better?!)

http://www.youtube.com/v/y4iFB5iW7ks
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 20, 2013, 05:52:44 PM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 20, 2013, 02:06:34 PM
:o

Listened to Reminiscence du Nord and Hekla for the first time this evening. AWESOME!

Reminiscence du Nord was incredibly beautiful. Very powerful and moving. The orchestration just with the strings was incredibly impressive too.
Hekla completely blew my mind! Must contain nearly every instrument possible! ;) In addition to organ, choir, hammers, gun shots etc, I think I also heard the ondes martinot too! :D Out of this world, and yes John, I think I might have to listen to the Rite of Spring to calm down a little ;)

INCREDIBLE MUSIC! This composer is definitely becoming one of my favourites! GENIUS! :D

:) Yeah, Hekla is a hell of a piece. I believe it uses 19 percussionists and of course the orchestra is huge. So, in a recording, it's no easy feat to capture all of these instruments, but I thought BIS have done an outstanding job. Imagine hearing this work live, Daniel. If you ever do, don't forget to bring your earplugs. ;) :D

Reminiscence du Nord is, again, one of those works that sheds a different light on Leifs' musical personality. Also, as mentioned, there are many gems like this scattered throughout his oeuvre. I'm thrilled you enjoyed the music as much as I have.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 20, 2013, 05:58:44 PM
Quote from: Cato on January 20, 2013, 02:39:29 PM
To paraphrase a famous American:

What hath Leifs wrought?

LEIFSMANIA  0:)  continues with...

Hekla via YouTube with the claim "Fastest Rendition"  (Is that better?!)

http://www.youtube.com/v/y4iFB5iW7ks

I wouldn't say a faster rendition would necessarily be "better" per se. I prefer a slow, festering build-up, but it might be nice to compare the Shao and Segerstam at some point. The Shao performance is a minute or so slower than Segerstam's whose performance clocks in a little over nine minutes. This performance you've posted here doesn't state who the conductor or orchestra are so I can't comment on that one since I actually haven't listened to it.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: lescamil on January 21, 2013, 12:11:59 AM
That fast recording is with Paul Zukofsky, the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, and Rekjavík Male Choir. I personally like the Segerstam most, as I mentioned before. The Zukofsky is too fast and loses some of its impact, the En Shao is too slow and lacks details. The Segerstam is that happy medium that fixes both of those issues. I'm just splitting hairs, though. If you don't know the piece at all, any of them will floor you!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 22, 2013, 07:58:09 AM
Quote from: lescamil on January 21, 2013, 12:11:59 AM
That fast recording is with Paul Zukofsky, the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, and Rekjavík Male Choir. I personally like the Segerstam most, as I mentioned before. The Zukofsky is too fast and loses some of its impact, the En Shao is too slow and lacks details. The Segerstam is that happy medium that fixes both of those issues. I'm just splitting hairs, though. If you don't know the piece at all, any of them will floor you!

I like the slower tempi used by Shao and I don't think it lacks any details in the recording. All of the BIS recordings' audio quality is top-notch.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 22, 2013, 08:06:23 AM
Listening to Leifs' music is a truly special experience for me. His music sounds like no other composer's. From the opening bars of Geysir or Icelandic Folk Dances, you're catapulted into a different kind of world where convention is left by the doorway. He's an earthy Modernist where rituals, natural phenomenon, heartbreak, and rage are completely intertwined to form a cohesive whole.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 28, 2013, 01:26:00 PM
Listened to two more Leifs pieces today: Dettifoss and Fine II. Both incredible! This composer really does amaze me, the landscapes he paints in his music are so evocative and powerful. Such a sense of beautiful nostalgia also, which is so moving. Really excited to continue exploring this composer's output! :D
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: North Star on January 28, 2013, 01:30:32 PM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on January 28, 2013, 01:26:00 PM
Listened to two more Leifs pieces today: Dettifoss and Fine II. Both incredible! This composer really does amaze me, the landscapes he paints in his music are so evocative and powerful. Such a sense of beautiful nostalgia also, which is so moving. Really excited to continue exploring this composer's output! :D
Excellent, Daniel!
Leifs's musical landscape is definitely austere and rough, but that's not to say that it isn't also beautiful.

Now listening to the Requiem, an exquisite 5 min piece.

http://www.youtube.com/v/ncRi2iXZJEk
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on January 28, 2013, 01:36:34 PM
Quote from: North Star on January 28, 2013, 01:30:32 PM
Excellent, Daniel!
Leifs's musical landscape is definitely austere and rough, but that's not to say that it isn't also beautiful.

Now listening to the Requiem, an exquisite 5 min piece.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncRi2iXZJEk

I think the contrasts in his music are just phenomenal! In a piece like Dettifoss, Geysir or Hekla, how he builds up the atmosphere very gradually and masterfully until everything is let loose like an explosion! Incredible music.

And yes, the Requiem is exquisite. Absolutely beautiful music. :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on January 28, 2013, 02:30:02 PM
Good to see you're enjoying Leifs music Daniel and Karlo. He's so fantastic.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Lisztianwagner on February 01, 2013, 11:25:10 AM
I've enjoyed Leifs' music very much, it sounds incredibly powerfully emotional to me. ;D
So far I've listened to Réminiscence du nord, Trois peintures abstraites, Geysir, Dettifoss and Hekla; I absolutely love the evocative, suggestive atmospheres and the enchanting landascapes depicted in those compositions, as well as the overwhelming energy and the intensity expressed; absolutely amazing. I was quite impressed by the orchestration, very brilliant and beautifully atmospheric, and in particular, by the great use of brass and percussion....it's incredible; in Geysir, that reminded me the Motiv des Sinnens of Wagner's Siegfried, so dark, mysterious and hauntingly thrilling! ;D
I look forward to listening to more Leifs!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on February 01, 2013, 11:31:31 AM
Excellent, Ilaria. I had an inclination that you would enjoy the music. :)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Lisztianwagner on February 01, 2013, 11:48:19 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on February 01, 2013, 11:31:31 AM
Excellent, Ilaria. I had an inclination that you would enjoy the music. :)

You were right, John. :) Was Leifs influenced by Wagner?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on February 01, 2013, 11:56:11 AM
Quote from: Lisztianwagner on February 01, 2013, 11:48:19 AM
You were right, John. :) Was Leifs influenced by Wagner?

Who wasn't influenced by Wagner in the early 20th Century. ;) Of course, there are composers who purposely avoided his influence: Debussy, the members of Les Six, among others.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: springrite on November 20, 2013, 08:16:08 AM
It is a shame that Iceland did not make it for the first time in its history. I was looking forward to LEIFS at full blast instead of looking at all the checkered flags and shirts that makes me dizzy.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: The new erato on November 20, 2013, 08:51:14 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on February 01, 2013, 11:56:11 AM
Who wasn't influenced by Wagner in the early 20th Century. ;) Of course, there are composers who purposely avoided his influence: Debussy, the members of Les Six, among others.
I would say that by expressly aiming be not be influenced by him, they actually were. Taking the opposite direction of somebody actually mean they influence your position greatly.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on November 02, 2014, 02:49:17 PM
Quote from: The new erato on November 20, 2013, 08:51:14 AM
I would say that by expressly aiming be not be influenced by him, they actually were. Taking the opposite direction of somebody actually mean they influence your position greatly.

Late response, but I agree. You're influenced one way or another by something whether you embrace or oppose it. This thread sure looks rather lonely. Time to put some fire underneath it.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: madaboutmahler on November 03, 2014, 07:27:43 AM
Indeed, John.. may put on some Leifs tonight! Been ages..!!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on November 03, 2014, 07:49:46 AM
Quote from: madaboutmahler on November 03, 2014, 07:27:43 AM
Indeed, John.. may put on some Leifs tonight! Been ages..!!

Remind me again, Daniel, what recordings you own of Leifs' music?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on November 03, 2014, 12:13:34 PM
I'll try to listen to some Leifs tonight too.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on November 03, 2014, 12:29:45 PM
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-rmaBz_WpM


Listened to this 'Elegia' (In Memoriam) op. 53

Found it very moving.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Brian on November 03, 2014, 01:48:27 PM
Brand new BIS album this month.

Scherzo concreto
Quintet for flute, clarinet, bassoon, viola, and cello
Pastoral variations for string quartet
Elegies, for male choir, mezzo-soprano, and violin

"These recordings have previously been released by the Smekkleysa label.
Remastered by BIS Records for the present release."

(http://cdn.naxosmusiclibrary.com/sharedfiles/images/cds/hires/BIS-2070.jpg)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on November 03, 2014, 02:07:49 PM
Quote from: Brian on November 03, 2014, 01:48:27 PM
Brand new BIS album this month.

Scherzo concreto
Quintet for flute, clarinet, bassoon, viola, and cello
Pastoral variations for string quartet
Elegies, for male choir, mezzo-soprano, and violin

"These recordings have previously been released by the Smekkleysa label.
Remastered by BIS Records for the present release."

(http://cdn.naxosmusiclibrary.com/sharedfiles/images/cds/hires/BIS-2070.jpg)

Hah! I own the original Smekkleysa issue. 8)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on November 03, 2014, 09:07:00 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on November 03, 2014, 02:07:49 PM
Hah! I own the original Smekkleysa issue. 8)

What's it like John?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on November 04, 2014, 06:37:16 AM
Quote from: vandermolen on November 03, 2014, 09:07:00 PM
What's it like John?

Haven't even heard it yet, Jeffrey. So much music, so little time...
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on November 04, 2014, 08:35:34 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on November 04, 2014, 06:37:16 AM
Haven't even heard it yet, Jeffrey. So much music, so little time...

Yes, I can relate to that.   ???
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Brian on August 03, 2015, 04:31:16 AM
Today, a note from BIS CEO Robert von Bahr:

"We are quietly collecting the Complete Music Edition of the totally unique Icelandic composer Jón Leifs (it doesn't take more than max 10 seconds of listening to any of his works to immediately pinpoint him as the composer) and there isn't so much remaining - but what there is remaining is fraught with so massive difficulties to arrange that I wonder if we can."

I suppose true Leifs fans will be able to figure out what he speaks of!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 09, 2017, 10:50:30 AM
Question for fans of this composer.

I have Saga Symphony but no other Leifs. If you could recommend 1 (one) other CD of his orchestral music, what would it be?
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on November 09, 2017, 12:46:32 PM
Quote from: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 09, 2017, 10:50:30 AM
Question for fans of this composer.

I have Saga Symphony but no other Leifs. If you could recommend 1 (one) other CD of his orchestral music, what would it be?
[asin]B000000AYJ[/asin]
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 09, 2017, 04:00:02 PM
Thanks Vander...why this disc in particular? I'm surprised you didn't mention one of those geological mega-noisemakers like Hekla or Geysir.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on November 09, 2017, 10:13:44 PM
Quote from: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 09, 2017, 04:00:02 PM
Thanks Vander...why this disc in particular? I'm surprised you didn't mention one of those geological mega-noisemakers like Hekla or Geysir.
My pleasure! I think was the first Leifs CD I bought and my first contact with his music. It's a while since I heard it but I recall thoroughly enjoying it. I know that you asked for orchestral music and it features the Icelandic Cantata, however most of the music on the CD is orchestral. I recall especially liking the atmospheric 'Fine 1' and 'Fine 2'. If you track back through this thread I'm sure you'll find some more megalomaniacal musical suggestions. 'Geysir' is definitely recommended as well, as is the soundtrack from the movie 'Tears of Stone' which features many extracts from Leifs's music.  :)
[asin]B000004A4M[/asin]
It's worth reading the review of the CD on the Amazon UK site:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tears-Stone-Various/dp/B000004A4M/ref=sr_1_4?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1510298480&sr=1-4&keywords=Tears+of+stone
The CD seems to be available dirt cheap on both the UK and US Amazon sites.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on November 10, 2017, 06:41:31 AM
My favorite Leifs works aren't the natural wonder sonic blockbusters, but works like Elegy, Requiem, Fine I & II, Consolation, Réminiscence du nord, 2 Songs, and Night.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 10, 2017, 09:34:08 AM
Quote from: Mirror Image on November 10, 2017, 06:41:31 AM
My favorite Leifs works aren't the natural wonder sonic blockbusters, but works like Elegy, Requiem, Fine I & II, Consolation, Réminiscence du nord, 2 Songs, and Night.

A couple of these are on the disc that has Hekla, so that might be a good choice.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: North Star on November 10, 2017, 09:52:12 AM
Quote from: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 10, 2017, 09:34:08 AM
A couple of these are on the disc that has Hekla, so that might be a good choice.
That's the only Leifs disc I have so far, a good choice. And indeed particularly for Réminiscence du nord, Requiem and Elegy.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on November 10, 2017, 09:55:58 AM
Quote from: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 10, 2017, 09:34:08 AM
A couple of these are on the disc that has Hekla, so that might be a good choice.
I'm sure you'll enjoy that one as well.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Mirror Image on November 10, 2017, 04:49:27 PM
Quote from: Archaic Torso of Apollo on November 10, 2017, 09:34:08 AM
A couple of these are on the disc that has Hekla, so that might be a good choice.

Yep, that disc is great. Don't get wrong these natural wonder blockbusters are great fun, but, for me, they don't represent the composer at his most personal. Much like Elgar's Pomp & Circumstance Marches or Enescu's Romanian Rhapsodies don't really reveal the composer we've come to know in their more intimate works.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Brian on April 09, 2018, 05:59:59 AM
BIS is recording Edda, Part II, and posting behind-the-scenes footage of the recording process on their Facebook page. Head on over to their Facebook and take a look - they are up to Part 9 of the video series, "Strange Instruments"!
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: vandermolen on April 09, 2018, 09:10:01 AM
Quote from: Brian on April 09, 2018, 05:59:59 AM
BIS is recording Edda, Part II, and posting behind-the-scenes footage of the recording process on their Facebook page. Head on over to their Facebook and take a look - they are up to Part 9 of the video series, "Strange Instruments"!
Excellent news!
Thanks for letting us know.
:)
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Symphonic Addict on December 05, 2019, 11:41:52 AM
Having created a thread concerning Leifs lately, I decided to listen to some of his most epic works: Parts I and II from Edda.

(https://cdn.naxosmusiclibrary.com/sharedfiles/images/cds/hires/BIS-SACD-1350.jpg)(https://cdn.naxosmusiclibrary.com/sharedfiles/images/cds/hires/BIS-2420.jpg)

The first feature that springs to mind is the sense of something really primitive and ancient. Leifs knew how to conjure up this kind of feelings by using the orchestra to fulfill the expectations of listeners. The particular rhythm one associates with him is there, and it enhances the sense of rawness. The choruses are impressively dramatic, overwhelming, though the work is not devoid of calm and ethereal moments like in Night, Morning movement (the longest one). A kind of Scottish bagpipe appears in some parts, and I found that detail interesting. The last movements contain music of tremendous impact. The finest aspect of this work, in my view, is the magnificent atmosphere throughout. A very fruitful listen altogether.

As for Edda - Part II, there is no too difference with the part I. It's a natural continuation in both musicality and atmosphere, but I felt it too monotonos and few contrasted. That distinctive rhythm becomes repetitive and doesn't help that much. Some parts for the timpani near the ending were impetuous, though, and I love when composers use them that way. Again, the last movements were some I found most exciting and really enthralling. Sadly I wasn't as impressed as by Part I, it was a bit of a letdown comparing it with the latter.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: André on December 05, 2019, 01:25:47 PM
I have Edda I, but not the sequel. Before I invest in it (it's not cheap) I'll give Edda I another airing. Last time I did in 2016 I was not very impressed. I'll revisit my impressions of it.

Regarding the megasonic busters, as they are pleasantly called, one should not make too much of it. It's not a Leifs signature by any means. BIS has skillfully worked around that stereotyping by putting just one per disc. So each of these 10-15 minute telluric/volcanic pieces is surrounded by about 50 minutes of very different stuff, often in miniature format. At the same time, the label has made some mileage out of that strategy by marketing the discs to the max: there's the Hekla disc, the Geysir one, then Dettifoss, Hafis... you can't blame them for making a few bucks out of it. At least they were professional enough to give us quality 'fillers'. These discs are actually more than the sum of their parts.

The SQ disc is a winner. The 'tears' in SQ 2 representing his daughter's death are a very special touch. I like the Baldr ballet, too. Overlong maybe, but impressive.
Title: Re: Tears of Stone: Jon Leifs 1899-1968
Post by: Symphonic Addict on December 05, 2019, 03:22:59 PM
Quote from: André on December 05, 2019, 01:25:47 PM
I have Edda I, but not the sequel. Before I invest in it (it's not cheap) I'll give Edda I another airing. Last time I did in 2016 I was not very impressed. I'll revisit my impressions of it.

Regarding the megasonic busters, as they are pleasantly called, one should not make too much of it. It's not a Leifs signature by any means. BIS has skillfully worked around that stereotyping by putting just one per disc. So each of these 10-15 minute telluric/volcanic pieces is surrounded by about 50 minutes of very different stuff, often in miniature format. At the same time, the label has made some mileage out of that strategy by marketing the discs to the max: there's the Hekla disc, the Geysir one, then Dettifoss, Hafis... you can't blame them for making a few bucks out of it. At least they were professional enough to give us quality 'fillers'. These discs are actually more than the sum of their parts.

The SQ disc is a winner. The 'tears' in SQ 2 representing his daughter's death are a very special touch. I like the Baldr ballet, too. Overlong maybe, but impressive.

Actually Edda Part II doesn't add anything new to be honest. If you didn't find Part I strong, probably Part II either.

I remember liking the SQs quite a bit, especially the one with a profoundly mysterious beginning (at the moment don't recall which one).